Gombe gov backs GSU’s 120% fee hike

….urges students to seek loans

Gombe State governor, Muhammadu Yahaya, has defended the recent 120 per cent increase in tuition fees at Gombe State University (GSU), stating that the decision is essential for the institution’s development.

Speaking on Thursday at the swearing-in ceremony of governing councils for higher institutions, boards of state-owned companies, and pilgrimage boards for Christians and Muslims at the Government House Banquet Hall, Yahaya emphasised the need for improved funding.

“I urge the newly appointed board chairmen to work diligently, particularly with Gombe State University. The new pro-chancellor and chairman of the council are seasoned administrators. The challenges we previously faced, which were avoidable, should not recur. We have made necessary adjustments and learned from our mistakes,” Yahaya said.

Addressing concerns from parents and students, the governor explained that GSU is striving to provide quality education despite financial constraints. “Gombe State University is making efforts to ensure education remains accessible. However, we must recognize that other universities in Maiduguri, Yola, and Bauchi charge higher fees for similar courses. We should encourage our children to take advantage of the opportunities available at GSU,” he said.

He added that the state government prioritises basic and secondary education, with tertiary education requiring additional funding. “Investments in education should never be considered a waste. We must collaborate with federal, state, and local governments to ensure access to education at all levels,” he noted.

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Justifying the fee hike, Yahaya stated that GSU authorities needed to supplement government funding due to increased financial demands from the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

“I understand students’ concerns regarding the fee increase, but this has not stopped ASUU and other unions from demanding more funding. To address this, we have significantly increased the university’s allocation,” he explained.

“Currently, no university in the North-East subregion receives as much funding as GSU. While government support remains crucial, universities must explore internal revenue generation to maintain high academic standards,” he added.

Encouraging students to explore financial aid options, Yahaya highlighted the federal government’s student loan program. “Under President Bola Tinubu, a student loan scheme has been introduced. Students should take advantage of this opportunity to finance their education while ensuring the university’s growth,” he advised.

He further compared tuition fees at federal institutions, noting that the Federal University of Kashere charges higher fees than GSU.

“Despite being federally owned, Kashere’s tuition is significantly higher. This underscores the need for state universities to seek alternative funding sources,” he further stated.

Speaking on behalf of the newly inaugurated boards, the chairperson of the College of Legal Studies, Nafada, Rep. Aishatu Jibrin, assured commitment to the institutions’ progress.

“We pledge to give our best in advancing these institutions and enhancing the quality of education,” she affirmed.